Inductively coupled plasma arc device

ABSTRACT

An inductively coupled plasma device includes a rotary furnace tube and an inductively coupled plasma source. The rotary furnace tube has a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis. In a first embodiment, the inductively coupled plasma source is disposed proximate to the first end of the rotary furnace tube and is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the rotary furnace such that the inductively coupled plasma source discharges a plasma into the rotary furnace tube. In a second embodiment, the inductively coupled plasma source is a ground electrode disposed within and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the rotary furnace tube, and a second electromagnetic radiation source disposed around or within the rotary furnace tube that generates a wave energy. The inductively coupled plasma source discharges a plasma within the rotary furnace tube.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This patent application is continuation patent application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/282,455 filed on Oct. 26, 2011 andentitled “Inductively Coupled Plasma Arc Device,” which is acontinuation-in-part patent application of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/370,591 filed on Feb. 12, 2009 and entitled “System, Method andApparatus for Lean Combustion with Plasma from an Electrical Arc,” whichis a non-provisional patent application of U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 61/027,879 filed on Feb. 12, 2008 and entitled,“System, Method and Apparatus for Lean Combustion with Plasma from anElectrical Arc,” both of which are hereby incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to plasma torches. Morespecifically, the present invention relates to inductively coupledplasma arc devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Plasma is primarily used for cutting metal, plasma spraying, analysis ofgases via IC Mass Spectrometry, plasma TVs, plasma lighting andexpensive production of nanopowders. One of the major drawbacks forusing plasma for other applications is the complexity and cost ofexisting systems. As a result, current plasma systems are not widelyused for steam reforming, cracking, gasification, partial oxidation,pyrolysis, heating, melting, sintering, rich combustion and/or leancombustion.

The major unresolved issue with current commercially available plasmatorches that use inertia confinement is that there is only one fluidexit—through the nozzle—for confining the plasma. Moreover, thesesystems must rely on controlling or regulating the upstream gas flow inorder to ignite, sustain and confine the plasma. These problems haveplagued the plasma industry and thus plasma torches are viewed asdifficult to operate due to the power supplies, controls, gases andvalves associated with the torches.

Accordingly, there is a need for a plasma system that is less complex,lower in cost and more efficient that current systems in order forplasma to be accepted as a mainstream device for use in theaforementioned applications and processes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an inductively coupled plasma device thatis less complex, lower in cost and more efficient that current systemsin order for plasma to be accepted as a mainstream device for use in theaforementioned applications and processes. The devices described hereinreduce the complexity of gas regulation (upstream and downstream fluidflow), current control, voltage control, plasma ignition, sustainmentand confinement by using a moveable electrode in combination with anelectrode nozzle, a tangential entry and exit, and a wave energy sourceselected from electromagnetic radiation (“EMR”) within the radiofrequency (“RF”) range all the way to a line frequency of 50 or 60 Hz.As a result, the present invention opens the door for wide scale use ofplasma for heavy industrial applications as well as commercial,residential and transportation applications.

When coupled to a turbocharger or turbocompressor, the present inventionallows for operating an inductively coupled plasma arc torch in variousmodes ranging from steam reforming, cracking, gasification, partialoxidation, pyrolysis, heating, melting, sintering, rich combustion andlean combustion. With respect to lean combustion of hydrogen, thepresent invention first cracks a fuel to hydrogen and black carbon, andcaptures the black carbon. Black carbon is fine particulate carbonemitted during incomplete combustion of carbonaceous fuels that iscommonly referred to as soot. Black carbon is said to be the secondlargest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide emissions.Thus, reducing black carbon emissions may be the fastest strategy forslowing climate change. In addition, the present invention even allowsfor combining water treatment and/or fluid treatment with anyone of theaforementioned applications.

The present invention provides an inductively coupled plasma device thatincludes a rotary furnace tube and an inductively coupled plasma source.The rotary furnace tube has a first end, a second end and a longitudinalaxis. In a first embodiment, the inductively coupled plasma source isdisposed proximate to the first end of the rotary furnace tube and isaligned with the longitudinal axis of the rotary furnace such that theinductively coupled plasma source discharges a plasma into the rotaryfurnace tube. In a second embodiment, the inductively coupled plasmasource is a ground electrode disposed within and aligned with thelongitudinal axis of the rotary furnace tube, and a secondelectromagnetic radiation source disposed around or within the rotaryfurnace tube that generates a wave energy. The inductively coupledplasma source discharges a plasma within the rotary furnace tube.

The present invention is described in detail below with reference to theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further advantages of the invention may be betterunderstood by referring to the following description in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a plasma arc torch in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of a Supersonic Lean Combustion Plasma Turbine inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a Supersonic Lean Combustion Plasma Turbine MotorGenerator in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a Supersonic Lean Combustion Plasma Turbine HighBypass Fan in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a Supersonic Lean Combustion Plasma TurbinePropeller in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a Plasma Turbine Thermal Oxidizer in accordancewith another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a Plasma Turbine Air Breathing & Steam Rocketwith Recuperator in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a RF inductively coupled plasma arc torch inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a diagram of a RF inductively coupled plasma arc torch inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9B is a diagram of a RF inductively coupled plasma arc torch inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a diagram of a master and slave RF inductively coupled plasmaarc torch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a microwave inductively coupled plasma arc torchin accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a master and slave microwave inductively coupledplasma arc torch in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a dual frequency inductively coupled plasma arctorch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arc torch screwfeeder in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arc torch screwpress in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arc torch hydrogenenrichment system in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arc torch rotarytube furnace in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;and

FIG. 18 is a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arc torch rotarykiln in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the making and using of various embodiments of the presentinvention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated thatthe present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts thatcan be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specificembodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways tomake and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of theinvention.

Now referring to FIG. 1, a plasma arc torch 100 in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention is shown. The plasma arc torch 100is a modified version of the ARCWHIRL® device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.7,422,695 (which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety)that produces unexpected results. More specifically, by attaching adischarge volute 102 to the bottom of the vessel 104, closing off thevortex finder, replacing the bottom electrode with a hollow electrodenozzle 106, an electrical arc can be maintained while discharging plasma108 through the hollow electrode nozzle 106 regardless of how much gas(e.g., air), fluid (e.g., water) or steam 110 is injected into plasmaarc torch 100. In addition, when a valve (not shown) is connected to thedischarge volute 102, the mass flow of plasma 108 discharged from thehollow electrode nozzle 106 can be controlled by throttling the valve(not shown) while adjusting the position of the first electrode 112using the linear actuator 114.

As a result, plasma arc torch 100 includes a cylindrical vessel 104having a first end 116 and a second end 118. A tangential inlet 120 isconnected to or proximate to the first end 116 and a tangential outlet102 (discharge volute) is connected to or proximate to the second end118. An electrode housing 122 is connected to the first end 116 of thecylindrical vessel 104 such that a first electrode 112 is aligned withthe longitudinal axis 124 of the cylindrical vessel 104, extends intothe cylindrical vessel 104, and can be moved along the longitudinal axis124. Moreover, a linear actuator 114 is connected to the first electrode112 to adjust the position of the first electrode 112 within thecylindrical vessel 104 along the longitudinal axis of the cylindricalvessel 124 as indicated by arrows 126. The hollow electrode nozzle 106is connected to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104 suchthat the center line of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 is aligned withthe longitudinal axis 124 of the cylindrical vessel 104. The shape ofthe hollow portion 128 of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 can becylindrical or conical. Moreover, the hollow electrode nozzle 106 canextend to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104 or extendinto the cylindrical vessel 104 as shown. As shown in FIG. 1, thetangential inlet 120 is volute attached to the first end 116 of thecylindrical vessel 104, the tangential outlet 102 is a volute attachedto the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104, the electrodehousing 122 is connected to the inlet volute 120, and the hollowelectrode nozzle 106 (cylindrical configuration) is connected to thedischarge volute 102. Note that the plasma arc torch 100 is not shown toscale.

A power supply 130 is electrically connected to the plasma arc torch 100such that the first electrode 112 serves as the cathode and the hollowelectrode nozzle 106 serves as the anode. The voltage, power and type ofthe power supply 130 is dependant upon the size, configuration andfunction of the plasma arc torch 100. A gas (e.g., air), fluid (e.g.,water) or steam 110 is introduced into the tangential inlet 120 to forma vortex 132 within the cylindrical vessel 104 and exit through thetangential outlet 102 as discharge 134. The vortex 132 confines theplasma 108 within in the vessel 104 by the inertia (inertial confinementas opposed to magnetic confinement) caused by the angular momentum ofthe vortex, whirling, cyclonic or swirling flow of the gas (e.g., air),fluid (e.g., water) or steam 110 around the interior of the cylindricalvessel 104. During startup, the linear actuator 114 moves the firstelectrode 112 into contact with the hollow electrode nozzle 106 and thendraws the first electrode 112 back to create an electrical arc whichforms the plasma 108 that is discharged through the hollow electrodenozzle 106. During operation, the linear actuator 114 can adjust theposition of the first electrode 112 to change the plasma 108 dischargeor account for extended use of the first electrode 112.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a diagram of a Supersonic Lean CombustionPlasma Turbine 200 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. In order to gasify, crack, reform or pyrolyize fuel,the fuel 202 may be introduced into the system at one or more points:(a) introducing the fuel 202 a into the plasma 108 directly throughfirst electrode 112 wherein the first electrode 112 is hollow; (b)mixing (e.g., via an eductor) the fuel 202 b with the gas (e.g., air),fluid (e.g., water) or steam 110 introduced into the tangential inlet120 of the plasma arc torch 100; and (c) introducing (e.g., via aneductor) the fuel 202 c into the plasma 108 plume exiting the hollowelectrode nozzle 106. The plasma arch torch 100 is connected to acyclone combustor 204 with a tangential entry 206 and tangential exit208. The cyclone combustor 204 is connected to a turbocharger 210 viavalve 212. Hot gases enter into a turbine 214 of the turbocharger 210.The turbine 214 rotates a compressor 216 by means of a shaft with apinion 218. A compressor inlet valve 220 is connected to the compressor216. Compressor inlet valve 220 eliminates the need for stators toimpart a whirl flow to match the compressor wheel rotation direction. Inaddition, by utilizing a tapered reducer for the housing the velocity ofthe air 222 must increase in order to conserve angular momentum. Byutilizing a plunger style stopper valve assembly 224 coupled to a linearactuator 226, the mass flow can be pinched or reduced while maintainingvelocity. The physical separation of the compressor/turbine orturbocharger 210 from the combustor 204 allows for a radically differentdesign for gas turbines, power plants and airframes. The turbocharger210 can be located and oriented to maximize airflow while minimizingforeign object damage (FOD). In addition, the turbocharger 210 may becoupled to rotating unions and tubing in order to rotate or direct theexhaust from the turbine 214 for thrust vectoring. In order to maximizeefficiency a first stage recuperator 228 is placed on the dischargeexhaust from the turbine 214 and a second stage recuperator 230 is placeon the discharge exhaust from the combustor 204 via a valve 232.Compressed air 234 enters into the first stage recuperator 228 and theninto the second stage recuperator 230. The hot compressed air 236 thenenters into the combustor 204 via a volute with tangential entry 206.

More specifically, the compressor inlet valve 220 includes a volute witha tangential entry, a cone-shaped reducer connected to the volute, alinear actuator connected to the volute, and a cone-shaped stopperdisposed within the cone-shaped reducer and operably connected to thelinear actuator. A controller is connected to the linear actuator toadjust a gap between the cone-shaped stopper and the cone-shaped reducerto increase or decrease mass flow while maintaining whirl velocity toclosely match compressor tip velocity.

Although there are several variations and modes of operations a fewbrief examples will be given in order to quickly demonstrate theuniqueness as well as functionality of the Supersonic Lean CombustionPlasma Turbine 200. A vortex is formed within the plasma arc torch 100using water, steam, fuel or any other fluid 110. The arc is struck and aplasma is discharged into the eye of the cyclone combustor 204. Theplasma syngas plume entering into the cyclone combustor 204 is also theigniter. Since it is in the eye of the cyclone it will be extended alongthe longitudinal axis of the combustor 204 and into valve 232. Bythrottling valves 212 and 232 the turbine can be operated from a takeoffmode and transition to supersonic and hypersonic flight. The purpose ofthe pinion 218 on the turbocharger 210 in combination with separatingthe combustor 204 from the compressor 216 and turbine 214 allows for aunique and completely unobvious mode of operation.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a diagram of a Supersonic Lean CombustionPlasma Turbine Motor Generator 300 in accordance with another embodimentof the present invention is shown. Two or more Plasma Turbines 200 (200a and 200 b as shown) are coupled to a bull gear 302 in a locked-trainfashion. The bull gear 302 drives a motor generator 306 via drive shaft304. This configuration allows for operating in a very fuel efficientand cost effective means. The first Plasma Turbine 200 a is started byusing the motor to rotate the pinions in order to rotate the compressor.The cyclone valve's stopper is opened to allow air into the compressor.The second Plasma Turbine's 200 b stopper is placed in a closed positionin order to unload the compressor. This can also be accomplished byplacing electrical clutches on the pinion. When air flow enters into thecombustor, the plasma arc torch 100 is ignited with only water or steamflowing through it in the same rotational direction as the cyclonecombustor. Once the plasma arc is stabilized fuel is flowed into theplasma arc torch 100 and gasified and synthesized into hydrogen andcarbon monoxide. The hot syngas plasma flows into the cyclone combustor.It is ignited and lean combusted and flowed out of the combustor via thetangential exit. Valve is fully opened while valve is shut in order tomaximize flow into the turbine. Valves and are then adjusted accordingto torque loading on the pinion in addition to turbine and compressorspeed.

By operating only one combustor at its maximum efficiency the generatorcan be operated as a spinning reserve. All utility companies within theUS are required to maintain “Spinning Reserves.” In order to come up tofull power additional Plasma Turbines can be started almost instantlywith very little lag time. This annular Plasma Turbine configuration mayhave multiple bull gears on a single shaft with each bull gearconsisting of multiple Plasma Turbines.

Now referring to FIG. 4, a diagram of a Supersonic Lean CombustionPlasma Turbine High Bypass Fan 400 in accordance with another embodimentof the present invention is shown. Two or more Plasma Turbines 200 (200a and 200 b as shown) are coupled to a bull gear 302 in a locked-trainfashion. A high bypass fan 402 is attached to the shaft 304. Likewise, asmall motor generator may be attached to the opposite end of the shaftfor starting and inflight electrical needs. Once again the PlasmaTurbine configuration allows for maximizing fuel efficiency while idlingat the gate and taxing by operating only one Plasma Turbine attached tothe bull gear. Prior to takeoff all Plasma Turbines are brought onlineto maximize thrust. After takeoff Plasma Turbines may be taken offlineto maximize fuel efficiency during climbout and at cruise altitude andspeed.

When the pilot is ready to transition to supersonic flight the turbineinlet valve is slowly closed while the combustor valve is opened. Thehigh bypass fan may be feathered in order to reduce speed of the bullgear or to reduce drag. Likewise an inlet cowling may be used to closeair flow to the high bypass fan. Air flow into the combustor is directlydue to speed of the aircraft. This is accomplished with an additionalthree way valve (not shown) connected to the combustor tangential entry.Thus, the combination of the plasma arc torch 100 and the cyclonecombustor coupled to a unique exhaust valve allows for a true plasmaturbine scramjet that can be operated in a supersonic lean fuelcombustion mode.

Referring to FIG. 5, a diagram of a Supersonic Lean Combustion PlasmaTurbine Propeller in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention is shown, which is similar to the motor generator and highbypass fan, the system allows for a very unique marine turbine. Incomparison, the US Navy's Spruance class destroyers were one of thefirst class of Naval ships to utilize high powered marinized aircraftturbines. Two GE LM-2500 Gas Turbine Engines were coupled to the portshaft via a bull gear and two GE LM-2500 Gas Turbine Engines werecoupled to the starboard shaft via a bull gear. This gave the ship atotal of 100,000 shaft horsepower. In order to operate in the most fuelefficient mode, only one engine was operated while the other engine wasdecoupled from the bull gear via a friction and spur gear type clutch.The other shaft was placed in a trail mode position and allowed to spinor rotate freely. If full power was needed the other 3 gas turbineengines required about 3 minutes to start in an emergency mode.

There were two major problems associated with the LM-2500 coupled to abull gear. First, when starting from a dead in the water position, theengineers had to conduct a dead shaft pickup. This required engaging theclutch and placing the friction brake on which held the power turbine.The turbine was started and hot gases flowed across a non-moving powerturbine section. The brake was released and the power turbine rotatedthus turning the bull gear. The variable pitched propeller was usuallyplaced at zero pitch.

Returning back to FIG. 5, the bull gear 302 with multiple PlasmaTurbines 200 (200 a and 200 b are shown) may be attached to a driveshaft 304 that is connected to a propeller 502. However, this system canbe greatly augmented with a motor generator (not shown) directlyattached to the drive shaft 304. In fact, the propeller 502 can beeliminated and replaced with an all electric drive pod. Thus, FIG. 3would be installed and simply would provide electrical power to theelectric drive pod. Neither rotating a shaft for transportation andpropulsion purposes nor rotating a large motor generator may be requiredfrom the Plasma Turbine System.

Now referring to FIG. 6, a diagram of Plasma Turbine Thermal Oxidizer600 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention isshown. The plasma arc torch 100 is attached to a commonly availablefilter vessel 602 which houses a ceramic hydrocylone 604. Ceramichydrocyclones 604 are available from CoorsTek and Natco.

More specifically, the vessel 602 has an air intake 606, a dischargeexhaust 608 and houses at least one ceramic cyclone combustor 604connected to the hollow electrode nozzle of the plasma arc torch 100. Afirst turbocharger 610 has a first turbine entry 612, a first turbineexit 614, a first compressor entry 616 and a first compressor exit 618.A second turbocharger 602 has a second turbine entry 622, a secondturbine exit 624, a second compressor entry 626 and a second compressorexit 628. The first turbine entry 612 and the second turbine entry 622are connected to the discharge exhaust 608 of the vessel 602. A firstrecuperator 630 is connected to the first turbine exit 614, the firstcompressor exit 618 and the tangential input of the plasma arc torch 100such that a compressed fuel from the first compressor exit 618 is heatedby a first exhaust 632 from the first turbine exit 614 and enters thetangential input of the plasma arc torch 100. A second recuperator 634connected to the second turbine exit 624, the second compressor exit 628and the air intake 606 of the vessel 602 such that a compressed air fromthe second compressor exit 628 is heated by a second exhaust 636 fromthe second turbine exit 624 and enters the air intake 606 of the vessel602.

Many landfills as well as wastewater treatment plants produce a low BTUfuel referred to as biogas. Likewise, many industries produce a very lowBTU offgas that must be thermally oxidized or incinerated. The plasmaturbine thermal oxidizer achieves lean combustion by first gasifying thelow BTU fuel in another low BTU fuel—syngas. However, since the syngashas a larger ignition range (LEL to UEL) it can be combusted at highflow rates without additional fuel.

The system is operated in the following mode. The plasma arc torch 100is turned on to establish an arc. Water or steam may be flowed in theplasma arc torch 100 to form the whirl or vortex flow. Air is flowedinto a compressor through a recuperator and into the vessel. The airsurrounds and cools the ceramic cyclone combustor. The air enters intothe ceramic hydrocyclone tangentially then exits as a hot gas into theturbines. Once air flow is established the low BTU gas is flowed into acompressor then into a recuperator. The hot low BTU gas is flowed intothe plasma arc torch 100 where it is steam reformed into syngas. Onceagain, the syngas plasma enters into apex valve of the ceramic cyclonecombustor. The syngas is lean combusted and traverses to the turbine,recuperator and then exhausted for additional uses. In this system, theturbochargers may be installed with high speed alternators for providingelectricity to operate the power supplies for the plasma arc torch 100.

This system is especially useful at wastewater treatment plants(“WWTPs”). Biogas is often produced from digesters. Likewise, all WWTPsuse air to aerate wastewater. Since the Plasma Turbine Thermal Oxidizeroperates in a lean fuel combustion mode, there is ample oxygen leftwithin the exhaust gas. This gas can be used for aerating wastewater.Likewise, plasma arc torch 100 can be used to disinfect water whilesteam reforming biogas. In addition, biosolids can be gasified with theplasma arc torch 100 to eliminate disposal problems and costs.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a diagram of a Plasma Turbine Air Breathing &Steam Rocket with Recuperator 700 in accordance with another embodimentof the present invention is shown. The thermal oxidizer 600 of FIG. 6can easily be converted into a rocket or process heater. A nozzle 702and recuperator 704 are attached to the outlet 608 of the combustor 604.Air or an oxidant are flowed into the recuperator 704. The hot air oroxidant exits the recuperator 704 and enters into the vessel 602 andinto the ceramic cyclone combustor 604. Fuel is pressurized via aturbocompressor 706 and enters into the plasma arc torch 100 where it isconverted or cracked into syngas. The syngas plasma plume ejecting intothe ceramic cyclone combustor 604 is controlled via a multi-positionfuel recirculation valve 708. A portion of the fuel may flow into thenozzle 702 to increase thrust. In order to drive the turbines a portionof the hot exhaust gas is scavenged and flowed to the inlets of the fuelturbocompressor 706 and turbocharger 710. When used as an air breathingrocket, upon reaching altitudes where lean combustion cannot besustained due a lack of oxygen molecules, in lieu of carrying anoxidant, the rocket would carry water. The water in pumped into therecuperator 704 to generate steam. The turbocharger 710 is valved suchthat it can pull a vacuum on the recuperator 704. The turbocharger 710is then operated as a vapor compressor. The compressed steam is flowedin the vessel 602. The extremely hot syngas reacts with the steam in theceramic cyclone combustor 604 for conversion to hydrogen and carbondioxide via the water gas shift reaction. Since the water gas shiftreaction is exothermic this will ensure that the steam remains in thevapor state. A small amount of liquid oxidizer may be added to combustthe hydrogen.

The present invention provides a method for supersonic lean fuelcombustion by creating an electric arc, generating a whirl flow toconfine a plasma from the electric arc, generating a combustion airwhirl flow, extracting a rotational energy from one or more hot gases,recuperating energy from the hot gases, and utilizing the electrical arcfor converting fuel to syngas while confining the plasma to the vortexof the whirling combustion air in order to maintain and hold a flame forsupersonic combustion while coupled to a means for extracting rotationalenergy from the hot lean combustion exhaust gas while recuperatingenergy for preheating the fuel and combustion air.

Now referring to FIG. 8, an inductively coupled (“IC”) plasma arc torchis illustrated in another embodiment of the present invention.Inductively coupled plasma torches are well known and well understood.Further elaboration is not necessary in order to understand and operatethe present invention. However, a brief introduction to inductionheating will help to understand the problems associated with currentdesigns of IC plasma torches. Ameritherm, Inc. located in Scottsville,N.Y., explains induction heating as:

-   -   “Induction heating is a method of providing fast, consistent        heat for manufacturing applications which involve bonding or        changing the properties of metals or other        electrically-conductive materials. The process relies on induced        electrical currents within the material to produce heat.    -   Typical Induction Heating System    -   An RF power supply sets alternating current within the coil,        creating a magnetic field. Your workpiece is placed in the coil        where this field induces eddy currents in the workpiece,        generating precise, clean, non-contact heat in the workpiece.    -   Operating Frequency    -   The higher the frequency, the shallower the heating in the        workpiece.    -   Magnetic Vs. Non-Magnetic Materials    -   Due to hysteresis, magnetic materials are heated more readily        than non-magnetic, resisting the alternating magnetic field        within the induction coil.    -   Depth of Penetration    -   Induced current in the workpiece is most intense on the surface,        diminishing below the surface; 80% of the heat produced in the        part is produced in the outer ‘skin’    -   Coupling Efficiency    -   The relationship of the current flow in the workpiece and the        distance between the workpiece and the coil is key; ‘close’        coupling increases the flow of current, increasing the amount of        heat produced in the workpiece.    -   The Importance of Coil Design    -   The size and shape of the water-cooled copper coil must follow        the shape of your workpiece and the variables of your process.        The correct heat pattern maximizes the efficiency of heating.    -   Applied Power    -   System output determines the relative speed at which the        workpiece is heated (a 5 kW system heating a workpiece more        quickly than a 3 kW system).”

Now returning back to FIG. 8, an induction coil is wrapped around an RFpermeable vessel 104 to ensure that the RF field generated from theinduction coil can couple to either the electrically conductive cathode112 and/or the electrically conductive anode nozzle 106 of the plasmaarc torch 100. Hence, since the plasma arc torch 100 produces anelectrical arc and subsequently plasma is formed near the arc, then theRF energy will couple to and enhance the plasma volume by first couplingto the free electrons within the arc. This allows for utilizing a muchsmaller DC power supply, for example a 12 volt battery and alternator inorder to start an arc and ignite the plasma. Hence the DC power supplyand arc are now operated as a plasma igniter. Thus, the RF energy isused to sustain the plasma while inertia from the whirling fluidconfines the plasma. In addition, as previously disclosed, the vessel104 has a tangential entry 110 and tangential discharge 118. Thetangential discharge 118 via volute is crucial because it allows forthrottling during operation to adjust plasma flow through the anodenozzle 106.

It will be understood that the vessel 104 may be constructed of anelectrical conductor such as graphite, silicon carbide (“SiC”), tungstencarbide, tantalum or any high temperature electrically conductivematerial. Previous testing conducted by the inventor of the presentinvention showed that a SiC vessel could be heated to over 4,000° F.Consequently, since SiC is a very good infrared emitter, then EMR can betransmitted into the vessel by inductively heating the vessel with RFenergy.

One unique, novel and completely unexpected feature is that the presentinvention operates similar to a diode and very similar to an electrongun. The DC power supply 130 sets up a potential difference between thecathode 112 and anode nozzle 106. Not being bound by theory, it isbelieved that a lower voltage DC power supply can be used, such as avehicle alternator or battery, while maintaining a fairly large gapbetween the cathode 112 and anode 106. This is due to two phenomenon.First, if the cathode is heated with the induction coil, this will leadto thermionic emission. Second, it is well known that RF energy willcouple to electrons. Hence, that is the method for plasma ignitionwithin a standard IC plasma torch—provide a spark. Thus when the RFenergy couples to the electron, the electron will gain energy.Consequently, this energy will be released when the electron strikes theanode. The anode will operate at a higher temperature, thus enhancingthe plasma also.

If electrons need to be pumped or further energized, then the RF coilcan be wrapped around the plasma 108 exiting from the anode nozzle 106as disclosed in FIG. 9. In all tests with the plasma arc torch 100, whenthe discharge 134 was blocked or closed with a valve (not shown), thearc was blown out of the anode nozzle 106, then curled back around andattached to the anode nozzle 106. This phenomenon can be clearlyobserved when wearing a number 11 or higher welder's shield.

Referring now to FIG. 9A, a diagram of a RF inductively coupled plasmaarc torch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,shows a RF coil wrapped partially around the anode nozzle 106. Thisallows for RF coupling to the anode, free electrons exiting from theanode nozzle 106 and the plasma 108. It will be understood that severalinduction coils and RF power supplies can be placed downstream from theanode nozzle to increase total power of the system.

Now referring FIG. 9A, a diagram of a RF inductively coupled plasma arctorch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention isshown. The induction coil is placed around an RF permeable parabolicreflector such as alumina. It is well known and well understood thatalumina reflects EMR within the infrared frequency range. Consequently,the plasma 108 is enhanced with RF energy which in turn produces moremore EMR energy preferably in the UV, Visible and IR frequency range.The EMR energy is reflected downstream from the plasma 108 with theparabolic reflector thus enhancing the treatment of material.

Referring now to FIG. 9B, a diagram of a RF inductively coupled plasmaarc torch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention isshown. A ground stinger electrode is used to transfer the arc from thecathode 112 to the anode nozzle 106 and then to the ground stingerelectrode. RF energy from the induction coil may couple to the plasma,to the arc and/or to the ground electrode based upon operating frequencychosen for the desired application. Thus, the plasma arc torch 100 isthe ignition source, while the RF energy is used to sustain the plasma.Hence, by using a ground stinger electrode this helps to confine theplasma near the electrodes and away from alumina reflector. By embeddingthe induction coil (not shown) within the alumina, this allows forcooling the alumina reflector. The hot water exiting from the aluminareflector may be used as the plasma gas. Thus, this allows forrecuperating heat from hot water produced from the aluminareflector/recuperator. The hotwater and/or steam mixture is flowed intothe plasma arc torch and is used as the gas/fluid 110 for the plasma arctorch 100.

Now returning back to FIGS. 6 and 7, both devices illustrate a vesselwith a parabolic end shape. It will be understood that an induction coilmay be attached to the plasma arc thermal oxidizer of FIG. 6 and/or theparabolic recuperator as shown in FIG. 7's plasma turbine air breathingand steam rocket.

Turning now to FIG. 10, a diagram of a master and slave RF inductivelycoupled plasma arc torch in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention is shown in which RF power supplies are stacked toincrease total power rating of the system. The induction coils mayoperate at the same frequency or at different frequencies based upon thecoupling material—electrode, plasma or free electrons. Consequently,this allows for maximizing energy into the system by increasing couplingefficiency. The system includes control loops as shown in order tocontrol an inlet valve, an outlet valve, the linear actuator, the DCpower supply 130, the RF Power Supply Master Control Module and the RFPower Supply Slave.

The simplicity of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 11, whichis a diagram of a microwave inductively coupled plasma arc torch inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The plasma arctorch 100 is partially placed within a microwave oven, by first drillinga hole through the top and bottom of the microwave oven. A microwavepermeable material such as quartz glass, alumina and/or sapphire is usedas the vessel 104. Volutes 116 and 118 are reattached to the vessel 104on the exterior top and bottom of the microwave oven. It will beunderstood that the anode nozzle 106 and tangential discharge 134 may belocated on the top of the microwave oven in order to keep hot gasesflowing upwards. The orientation of the plasma arc torch 100 is basedupon its use. For example, by utilizing the orientation in the currentconfiguration a unique downdraft plasma gasifier can be constructed bysimply using an ancient clay cooker called a “kamado.” Big Green Eggs®and generic kamado clay cooker are commonly available in stores.

Returning to FIG. 11, anode nozzle 106 would be attached to the top ofthe kamado clay cooker's exhaust. Metal screens supplied with the kamadowould be removed or can be used to support biomass. Biomass or garbagewould be placed inside the kamado by simply lifting the lid. Syngaswould be piped from the bottom outlet of the kamado. Likewise, thedevice as disclosed in FIG. 11 can be attached to the bottom outlet ofthe kamado and operated as an updraft gasifier.

Another unique feature of the present invention is that natural gas orpropane and water can be used as the plasma gas. A water mister would beattached to the inlet line of the propane 110 feeding into inlet 120.Thus, the propane would be steam reformed and the hot syngas plasmawould gasify any biomass within the kamado. However, a small steamgenerator can be built by simply coiling copper tubing and using it tocool the syngas. The water will be converted to steam and is used as thefluid 110 in the inductively coupled plasma arc torch 100. The DC powersupply can be a battery, small DC welder or an alternator turned by agas type engine fired on the syngas produced from the Kamado IC PlasmaArc System.

Now referring to FIG. 12, a diagram of a master and slave microwaveinductively coupled plasma arc torch in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention is shown. For commercial and industrialapplications, the plasma arc torch 100 is improved by coupling withmicrowaves. A waveguide is attached to the vessel 104 in order to emitEMR into the plasma arc torch 100. It is well known that EMR within themicrowave frequency range will couple to graphite, electrons and plasma.The plasma arc torch 100 may include another waveguide for irradiatingthe plasma 108 and free electrons exiting from the anode nozzle 106

Referring now to FIG. 13, a diagram of a dual frequency inductivelycoupled plasma arc torch in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention is shown. EMR at a higher frequency, such as microwavefrequency range from 900 MHz to 2.45 GHz, is used to sustain the plasma108 and energize free electrons while a second EMR source at a differentfrequency, such as 10 to 400 KHz is used to inductively couple to theanode nozzle 106, plasma 108 or free electrons. Likewise, line frequencyof 50 or 60 Hz may be used by simply wrapping an electrical line aroundthe plasma arc torch 100 vessel 104 and/or the anode nozzle 106.

Now referring to FIG. 14, a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arctorch screw feeder in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. As previously stated the plasma arc torch is initself is a plasma reactor. The present invention shown in FIG. 14 hasbeen built, tested and found to produce unexpected results.

Several different types of biomass were fed through the hollow anode106. The screw feeder stopped feeding material. The system wasdisassembled and a carbon ball was found within the anode nozzle 106.The carbon ball had no odor and when crushed a white material was foundwithin the center. It is believed that minerals such as calcium wereconcentrated in the center. It will be understood that any material canbe backflowed through the anode nozzle. The plasma arc torch 100 can bedramatically enhanced with an induction coil. The RF energy will coupleto the graphite nozzle, thus heating it to assist in carbonization offeedstock. Likewise, a frequency can be chosen to couple to the arcand/or the plasma.

Now turning back to FIG. 1, the discharge 134 is necessary in order tooperate in this configuration. All other plasma torches are designed toproduce a plasma and discharge the plasma from a nozzle. The improved ICplasma arc torch 100 as disclosed in FIG. 14 allows for a very simpledesign for a gasifier, gas cracker, furnace and/or pyrolysis system.

Referring now to FIG. 15, a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arctorch screw press in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. The novelty of the present invention's linearactuator electrode can be fully appreciated when operated with a screwpress. Screw presses typically use an actuator to hold back the solidsin order to squeeze and press the liquids from the solids. The linearactuator coupled to the cathode electrode 112 is used to maintainpressure against material within the hollow anode nozzle 106. A hollowshaft screw further improves the system by inserting a positive groundedstinger down the bore of the hollow shaft. This allows for feeding bothelectrodes from opposite ends, thus overcoming the number one problemwith plasma torches—electrode life. Hence, by continually feedinggraphite electrodes, the system does not need to be shut down. Graphiteelectrodes with boxes and pins that screw together are very common andare used throughout the metal industry in carbon arc furnaces as well asfor carbon arc gouging.

The invention as disclosed in FIG. 15 allows for dewatering solids whilesimultaneously treating the solids with high temperature plasma. Theinduction coil allows for induction heating of the anode nozzle 106 thecathode electrode 112 as well as coupling to the plasma and the arc.Where DC power and the arc come into play is when material begins tocarbonize it then becomes electrically conductive. However, at theonsite of carbonization the material will act as a resistor. Thus, thematerial can be efficiently heated with resistive heating via DC power.The gas, fluid and/or fuel 110 utilized is based upon the desired outputfor example quenching the hot carbon balls with water. Likewise, thisconfiguration allows for scrubbing any gases produced by using analkaline solution.

Referring to FIG. 16, an inductively coupled plasma arcwhirl torchcracker is disclosed in another embodiment of the present invention. Inlieu of adding air to the Whirl/Vortex Combustor as disclosed in FIGS.2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, natural gas (“NG”) or any quenching fluid is flowedinto the whirl combustor. In order to be brief, NG will be used as anexample for the quench fluid. NG is flowed into the plasma arc torch 100to begin cracking NG, ethane, butane or propane into hydrogen and blackcarbon. Since hydrogen is less dense then carbon it will seek the centerof the whirling cyclone within the plasma arc torch 100. Consequently,black carbon being more dense will be forced to the outside or peripherywall of the whirling cyclone within the plasma arc torch 100.

Another novel feature of the present invention lies in part of thewhirling black carbon near the vessel 204 wall. The EMR from theinduction coil will couple to the black carbon and inductively heat theblack carbon. This will ensure that any and all volatile material willbe volatilized, thus producing a fairly clean black carbon. Furthermore,the addition of the Induction Coil allows for cofeeding biomass, coal,coke or any carbonaceous material with a fluid directly into plasma arctorch 100 with a venturi.

Since a cyclone separator is not a perfect separator some carbon will beentrained within the hydrogen and flow through the electrode nozzle.Hence the high temperature filter attached to the electrode nozzle. Thefilter traps the carbon (“C”) and only allows hydrogen (“H2”) to passthrough it as shown by arrows H2 and C. Thus, by coupling theWhirl/Vortex Enricher/Quencher to a very novel inductively coupledplasma arc torch cracker the amount of hydrogen produced and flowed canbe easily controlled for hydrogen enriching any fuel.

By throttling valve HPNG and valve 134 hydrogen production and NGrecirculation dictates how much hydrogen flows through the electrodenozzle and into the Whirl/Vortex Enricher. For example, shutting valveHPNG eliminates hydrogen production. Fully opening valve HPNG andshutting valve 134 maximizes hydrogen production. However, carbon willbe entrained with the hydrogen and removed via the filter. In order tooperate in a preferred carbon capture mode, valve HPNG is throttled toproduce a vacuum within the venturi. The venturi pulls a suction on acyclone separator. Valve 134 is throttled to allow carbon, uncracked NGand some hydrogen into the cyclone separator. Carbon is removed anduncracked NG and hydrogen are recycled via the venturi.

The hydrogen and some carbon enter into the Whirl/VortexEnricher/Quencher. Only hydrogen passes through the filter. An idealporous material for the filter is carbon foam manufactured by CFOAM.CFOAM is electrically conductive but not thermally conductive. It is agood thermal insulator. Hence, it will aid in trapping the heat toensure that NG within the filter is further cracked to hydrogen andcarbon.

When the hydrogen permeates through the porous filter media, it quicklymixes with the NG whirling within the Enricher. Likewise, the cool NGquickly quenches and absorbs the heat from the hot hydrogen gas.

The Hydrogen Enriched Natural Gas (“HENG”) exits the Whirl Enricher andflows into a centrifugal compressor of a turbocharger orturbocompressor. It may or may not be entrained with air for premixingprior to combustion. Although not shown, a plasma arc lean combustionturbine operating on hydrogen may be used to drive the turbine of theturbocharger.

The valves 212 and 232 as disclosed in FIG. 2 allow for the plasma arccracker to be cleaned online by simply shutting valve 212 and openingvalve 232. Referring to both FIG. 16 and FIG. 2, NG will flow fromoutside to inside the filter and the mixture of hydrogen and natural gaswill flow through valve 232 while carbon will exit through valve 240.The gas mixture then flows into a recuperator then the compressor of theturbocharger. Thus, the filter is cleaned while still producing hydrogenand enriching natural gas or any other fuel. Now, by adding an inductioncoil around the whirl cyclone enricher and quencher it enhances theperformance of the system by ensuring the filter is operated at a hightemperature, by also allows for preheating any fluid backflowed throughthe filter for cleaning purposes. Air, oxygen or steam may be backflowedto remove the carbon trapped within the porous spaces of the filter.

Now referring to FIG. 17, a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arctorch rotary tube furnace in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention is shown. The inductively coupled plasma arc torch 100is directly attached to discharge its plasma into an induction rotarytube furnace with induction coils located on the periphery of the tube.The rotary furnace tube may be selected from an RF permeable (quartz,sapphire, alumina) or RF absorbing material (graphite, silicon carbide,tungsten carbide, molybdenum, stainless steel, Kanthal®, tantalum,etc.). For example, if the furnace tube is graphite, then temperaturesin excess of 5,000° F. can be reached and maintained within the rotarygraphite furnace via induction heating of the rotary graphite tube. Inthis mode of operation a fuel gas would be used that can be cracked tohydrogen and black carbon in order to operate in an inert atmosphere.However, any inert gas may be used and recycled. A recuperator allowsfor preheating material while also allowing for preheating the gas toused in plasma archwhirl torch 100. An ideal use for the aforementionedinductively coupled plasma arcwhirl rotary furnace tube is formanufacturing and sintering proppants.

Proppants are used to fracture oil and gas wells. Currently, proppantsare sintered with long rotary kilns fired with natural gas. There aremany problems associated with long rotary kilns, however the number oneissue is relining the kiln with refractory. Another major issue is thatproppants must be fired at 2,900° F. Thus, at this temperature, NOxemissions are a problem for rotary kilns. The IC Plasma Arc RotaryGraphite Furnace Tube allows for sintering proppants in an inertatmosphere, thus allowing for higher firing temperatures, shorterresidence times and zero emissions by recycling an inert gas.

On the other hand, the IC Plasma Arc Rotary Furnace may be operated inan oxidizing atmosphere. For example, if the rotary tube is made ofalumina, then RF energy will inductively heat the positive groundelectrode, the arc and the plasma within the rotary tube. In this modeof operation air or oxygen can be used as the plasma gas.

As previously disclosed several RF power supplies (“PS”) can be stackedin order to increase total power of the system. One PS would operate asthe master while the others would operate as slaves. Likewise, aspreviously disclosed, utilizing a stinger electrode allows for feedingelectrodes from both ends for continuous duty operations.

Referring now to FIG. 18, a diagram of an inductively coupled plasma arctorch rotary kiln in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. The plasma arc turbine torch 200 may be attached toany rotary kiln. The plasma arc torch 100 is easily retrofitted into aninductively coupled plasma torch by adding RF coils. By attaching thepresent invention to a rotary kiln and by first lean and/or richcombusting a fuel and/or gasifying biomass, the hot combustion gases candrive a turbogenerator as previously disclosed. This in turn providesthe electrical power to the DC and RF power supplies. Thus, facilitiesoperating in areas that have high electrical costs can operate off thegrid by using a hydrocarbon fuel or renewable fuels such as biomass,wind or solar. Likewise, since it is well known that exhaust gastemperatures from modern day turbochargers can reach 1,800° F., then thehot exhaust from the turbine is piped into the rotary furnace door isshown. The central exhaust nozzle fired directly down the center of therotary kiln. The turbine exhaust is directed tangentially down and up byto form yet another WHIRLING hot gas. The melt is tapped via a tap hole.Hot gases exit to a recuperator (not shown) to preheat combustion air.Charge material is fed on the opposite end of the rotary kiln. Thissystem would be ideal for recovering aluminum from aluminum dross,aluminum cans and Tetra Pack® fluid containers.

The foregoing description of the apparatus and methods of the inventionin preferred and alternative embodiments and variations, and theforegoing examples of processes for which the invention may bebeneficially used, are intended to be illustrative and not for purposeof limitation. The invention is susceptible to still further variationsand alternative embodiments within the full scope of the invention,recited in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An inductively coupled plasma device comprising:a rotary furnace tube having a first end, a second end, and alongitudinal axis; a plasma source disposed proximate to the second endof the rotary furnace tube and aligned with the longitudinal axis of therotary furnace tube; a ground electrode disposed within and aligned withthe longitudinal axis of the rotary furnace tube; and an electromagneticradiation source disposed around or within the rotary furnace tube thatgenerates a wave energy that is inductively coupled to the groundelectrode, the plasma or a combination thereof.
 2. The inductivelycoupled plasma device as recited in claim 1, wherein the plasma sintersone or more proppants introduced into the rotary furnace tube.
 3. Theinductively coupled plasma device as recited in claim 1, wherein therotary furnace tube comprises a graphite tube.
 4. The inductivelycoupled plasma device as recited in claim 1, wherein the electromagneticradiation source comprises one or more induction coils, a microwavesource, or a waveguide coupled to the microwave source.
 5. Theinductively coupled plasma device as recited in claim 1, wherein atleast a portion of the rotary furnace tube is transparent orsemi-transparent to the wave energy.
 6. The inductively coupled plasmadevice as recited in claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the rotaryfurnace tube absorbs the wave energy produced by the electromagneticradiation source, emits an infrared radiation towards the longitudinalaxis, and comprises graphite or silicon carbide.
 7. The inductivelycoupled plasma device as recited in claim 1, further comprising: amaterial feed inlet disposed proximate to the second end of the rotaryfurnace tube; and a material discharge outlet disposed proximate to thefirst end of the rotary furnace tube.
 8. The inductively coupled plasmadevice as recited in claim 7, further comprising a recuperator coupledto the material feed inlet.
 9. The inductively coupled plasma device asrecited in claim 1, wherein the plasma source comprises: a cylindricalvessel having a first end and a second end; a tangential inlet connectedto or proximate to the first end; a tangential outlet connected to orproximate to the second end; an electrode housing connected to the firstend of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is alignedwith a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and extends into thecylindrical vessel; a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the secondend of the cylindrical vessel such that the center line of the hollowelectrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of thecylindrical vessel; and wherein the tangential inlet and the tangentialoutlet create a vortex within the cylindrical vessel, and the firstelectrode, and the hollow electrode nozzle creates the plasma thatdischarges through the hollow electrode nozzle and into the rotaryfurnace tube.
 10. The inductively coupled plasma device as recited inclaim 9, further comprising: a second electromagnetic radiation sourcethat produces the wave energy and is disposed around or within thecylindrical vessel, wherein at least a portion of the cylindrical vesselis transparent or semi-transparent to the wave energy; and the waveenergy from the second electromagnetic radiation source couples to thefirst electrode, the hollow electrode nozzle, the plasma or acombination thereof.
 11. The inductively coupled plasma device asrecited in claim 10, wherein the second electromagnetic radiation sourcecomprises one or more induction coils, a microwave source, or awaveguide coupled to the microwave source.
 12. The inductively coupledplasma device as recited in claim 9, further comprising a thirdelectromagnetic radiation source disposed adjacent to the hollowelectrode nozzle.
 13. The inductively coupled plasma device as recitedin claim 12, wherein the third electromagnetic radiation sourcecomprises one or more induction coils, a microwave source, or awaveguide coupled to the microwave source.
 14. The inductively coupledplasma device as recited in claim 9, further comprising: an inlet valveconnected to the tangential inlet; and a discharge valve connected tothe tangential outlet.
 15. The inductively coupled plasma device asrecited in claim 9, further comprising: a cyclone combustor connected tothe hollow electrode nozzle, wherein the cyclone combustor has atangential entry, a tangential exit and an exhaust outlet connected tothe rotary furnace tube; and a turbocharger having a turbine connectedto a compressor via a shaft, where a turbine entry is connected to thetangential exit of the cyclone separator and the compressor exit isconnected to the tangential entry of the cyclone combustor.
 16. Theinductively coupled plasma device as recited in claim 9, wherein thefirst electrode is hollow and a fuel is introduced into the hollow firstelectrode.
 17. The inductively coupled plasma device as recited in claim9, wherein a fuel is introduced into the tangential inlet of the plasmaarc torch.
 18. The inductively coupled plasma device as recited in claim9, wherein a fuel is introduced into the plasma that discharges throughthe hollow electrode nozzle.
 19. The inductively coupled plasma deviceas recited in claim 9, wherein a gas, a fluid or steam is introducedinto the tangential inlet of the plasma arc torch.